Girl's heart problems spawn new law for Missouri newborns

A new law takes effect in Missouri today that will change the way all newborns in the state are tested for congenital heart defects.

The law's namesake, Chloe Manz, is a 5-year-old girl from Lee's Summit who has spent the last five years fighting to stay alive.

Kelly Manz said the first night in the hospital after she gave birth to Chloe, she was told her baby was healthy.

"She didn't have any symptoms," said Kelly Manz. "She was breathing fine. She wasn't blue or anything like that. I just felt something was wrong, and I'm so glad I followed up on that."

She said she trusted her intuition.

"I reflect back to that night and I'm just so glad I did not give up," she said.

Kelly Manz said she demanded more tests, which revealed that her daughter had four previously undiagnosed congenital heart defects and would need open-heart surgery.

"My heart was sick," Chloe Manz said.

As Chloe grew healthier, Kelly Manz lobbied in Jefferson City to make a simple test mandatory for every child born in Missouri. A pulse oximetry test costs about $10, takes about 10 minutes and measures oxygen in the bloodstream. It could lead to further testing if abnormalities are found, as they were in Chloe's case.

Four years later, the law is now in effect, delivering a priceless birthday gift to children like Chloe.

"I'm excited. I'm relieved. I'm so proud and honored Chloe has her name on this," Kelly Manz said. "I'm just happy babies can be born and have this screening."

Parents can refuse the test if it conflicts with their religious beliefs. Missouri is one of 37 states with a law like this. Kansas remains without one.

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